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OVERVIEW:
Camp Chitake is managed by Natureways Safaris a company specialising in eco-friendly sustainable tourism and conservation, resulting in highly authentic safaris.
ACCESS & LOCATION:
Most travellers access Mana Pools via air transfer from Victoria Falls International Airport, but flights are also available from Harare. Camp Chitake is approached through the park’s Nyakasikana Gate. The terrain is pretty rugged all the way to camp, but a sturdy 4×4 vehicle brings guests safely to the site!
Considered a hidden gem within the park, Chitake Spring attracts both predators and herbivores, especially during the dry season from June to October. The Chitake river connects with the Ruckomechi river, which flows into the mighty Zambezi, but outside green season the rivers cannot sustain all of the resident wildlife. At that time, campers are able simply to sit outside their tents and observe astounding concentrations of big cats and plains game, in addition to spectacular flocks of birds!
ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT CAMP CHITAKE:
Usually Camp Chitake’s guest tents are set up on the edge of the Chitake river. They are simple in design, but comfortable enough with well-made twin beds, lighting, and access to a flush toilet, a washbasin, and a classic bucket shower. At night, campers can drift off surrounded by the sounds of nature – a really exhilarating experience!
ACTIVITIES AT CAMP CHITAKE:
Activities from camp are focused on the wildlife of the Chitake region.
- Walking safaris take you deep into the woodlands of the valleys, as well as high up into the hills to enjoy amazing views over the parkland. Fishing is possible too, as is canoeing for a different perspective from the rivers. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you will appreciate opportunities to track lions!
- And at the height of the dry season, you can even make your own hide close to the Chitake riverbed. Predators you can look out for include lion, leopard, hyena, and the rare wild dog, while the herbivore count features elephant, buffalo, zebra, and an assortment of antelopes!
- There’s also no shortage of birds here, with highlights such as hornbills, sand grouse, starlings, lovebirds, and doves.
- In all, Mana Pools has over 350 types of feathery friend, so it’s well worth remembering your camera and binocs!
*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.
